Quality of life in young adults with head injury living in nursing homes: a comparative study

Best, Amy C. (2012) Quality of life in young adults with head injury living in nursing homes: a comparative study. D Clin Psy thesis, University of Glasgow.

Abstract

Background: Little is known about young adults with Head Injury (HI) who are discharged to nursing homes; particularly with regards to the impact that living environment has on their quality of life (QOL). To date QOL profiles in HI are limited and much of this research has also been confined to those who live in the community. The degree to which existing profiles are meaningful in young adults with HI living in nursing homes is uncertain and further investigation is required.
Methods: The present study aims to investigate whether QOL differs for individuals with HI living in nursing homes compared to individuals with HI living in the community and healthy peers. 33 participants were recruited into one of three groups; HI nursing home (n = 11), HI community group (n = 11) and a healthy control group (n = 11). The groups were compared on generic and disease specific self-report measures of QOL. In order to create a picture of factors which are associated with QOL following HI; the HI groups completed a number of measures assessing psychosocial variables (depression, self-esteem, contact with family and friend and completion of recreational activities).
Results: No differences in ratings of QOL between the HIN group and HICC and healthy control groups were found. Relationships were found between levels of depression, self-esteem and QOL after HI.
Conclusion: No evidence was found to support the hypothesis that QOL is poorer for young adults with HI living in nursing homes. Further support is provided for a number psychological variables associated with QOL. Further research is required to replicate and extend these findings.

• Item Type: Thesis (D Clin Psy)
• Qualification Level: Doctoral
• Keywords: Head Injury, Quality of Life, Nursing Homes
• Subjects: B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BF Psychology
• Colleges/Schools: College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Health & Wellbeing
• Supervisor's Name: McMillan, Professor Thomas
• Date of Award: 2012
• Depositing User: Miss Amy C Best
• Unique ID: glathesis:2012-3623
• Copyright: Copyright of this thesis is held by the author.
• Date Deposited: 16 Nov 2012
• Last Modified: 10 Dec 2012 14:09
• URI: https://theses.gla.ac.uk/id/eprint/3623